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School Readiness for Children with ADHD

 Preparing for school can be an exciting yet challenging time, especially for children with ADHD. School readiness for children with ADHD involves more than academic abilities, it requires a focus on behavioural, emotional, and social skills. Early intervention strategies and thoughtful preparation can help children transition to the school environment more smoothly.

 

Understanding School Readiness for Children with ADHD 

 

School readiness for children with ADHD means ensuring they have the skills and strategies necessary to navigate the classroom environment. This includes the ability to follow routines, engage with peers, and manage attention-related challenges. By focusing on these areas before school starts, we can set our children up for success. 

 

Key Components of School Readiness for Children with ADHD 

 

  1. Building Attention and Focus One of the most significant challenges for children with ADHD is maintaining attention in a classroom setting. Activities that promote sustained attention, such as puzzles or simple step-by-step games, can help prepare them for the structured learning environment. Gradually increasing the duration of such activities can build their focus over time. 
  2. Developing Routines Establishing daily routines is essential for school readiness for children with ADHD. Predictable schedules help children feel secure and understand expectations. Parents can create a morning routine that mirrors the school day, including set times for waking up, eating breakfast, and getting dressed. Practicing these routines before the school term begins can ease the transition. 
  3. Social Skills and Peer Interaction Social interaction can be challenging for children with ADHD, as impulsivity and difficulty reading social cues may be common. Parents can foster these skills by organizing playdates or role-playing scenarios such as sharing, taking turns, or resolving conflicts. Positive reinforcement can encourage appropriate social behaviour, building confidence in social settings. 
  1. Emotional Regulation and Coping Strategies Emotional regulation is another critical aspect of school readiness for children with ADHD. Teaching children techniques like deep breathing or counting to calm down can help them manage frustration or anxiety. Using visuals, such as an emotion chart, can assist children in identifying and expressing their feelings. 
  2. Engaging in Physical Activity Regular physical activity can help children with ADHD release energy and improve focus. Activities such as running, swimming, or yoga can be incorporated into their routine to prepare them for the sitting and listening required in school. 

 

Parental and Educator Involvement 

 

At Catch Up Kids, we collaborate with parents and educators as this plays a crucial role in school readiness for children with ADHD. Communication with families and schools is vital to ensure that teachers understand the child’s unique needs. Sharing strategies that work for that specific child can help teachers create a supportive classroom environment. 

Additionally, we also collaborate with specialists, such as occupational or speech therapists, who can provide additional strategies. Early intervention can significantly improve a child’s ability to cope with the demands of school, ensuring a smoother transition and greater long-term success. 

Conclusion 

 

School readiness for children involves a combination of preparing attention, routines, social skills, and emotional regulation. By fostering these skills and working closely with educators and specialists, we can empower our children to thrive in school. Early preparation and a supportive environment can make a huge difference for children with ADHD, giving them the tools they need to succeed academically and socially. 

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ADHD and Learning Difficulties

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is often accompanied by various learning difficulties, making it essential to understand how these conditions interact and impact children. ADHD and learning difficulties frequently coexist, creating unique challenges in educational and personal development. Although there is no cure for these conditions, early intervention and tailored support can significantly alleviate their effects.

 

Understanding ADHD and Learning Difficulties

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. These symptoms can vary in severity and often interfere with daily functioning. Learning difficulties, on the other hand, encompass a range of disorders that affect the ability to acquire and use academic skills, such as reading, writing, and mathematics. Common learning difficulties include dyslexia, dysgraphia, and dyscalculia.

When ADHD and learning issues coexist, they can make up the challenges an individual faces. For instance, a child with ADHD may struggle with staying focused in class, while a learning difficulty like dyslexia can further complicate their ability to read and comprehend text. This combination can lead to frustration, low self-esteem, and academic underachievement if not addressed properly.

 

Impact of ADHD and Learning Difficulties

The coexistence of ADHD and learning difficulties can have a profound impact on an individual’s academic performance and overall well-being. Some of the key challenges include:

  • Attention and Focus: ADHD often leads to difficulties in sustaining attention, which can hinder the learning process. When coupled with learning difficulties, this challenge is amplified, making it harder for students to keep up with their peers.
  • Organization and Time Management: ADHD can impair executive functions, affecting an individual’s ability to organize tasks and manage time effectively. Learning difficulties can add to this burden, making it crucial for students to receive specialized support.
  • Emotional and Social Impact: The frustration of dealing with ADHD and learning issues can lead to emotional issues such as anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. Social interactions may also be affected, as these individuals might feel isolated or misunderstood by their peers.

 

Early Intervention and Support Strategies

While ADHD and learning challenges cannot be cured, early intervention is key to mitigating their impact. Timely and appropriate support can help individuals develop coping mechanisms and achieve success in various aspects of life.

  • Individualized Education Plans (IEPs): Schools can develop IEPs tailored to the specific needs of students with ADHD and learning difficulties. These plans provide accommodations such as extra time on tests, specialized instruction, and assistive technology.
  • Behavioural Therapy: Behavioural interventions can help individuals with ADHD improve their focus, organization, and self-control. Techniques such as positive reinforcement and structured routines can be particularly beneficial.
  • Skill-Building Programs: Programs aimed at improving academic skills, such as reading and math tutoring, can address specific learning difficulties. These programs often use multisensory approaches to enhance learning.
  • Parental and Educator Involvement: Parents and educators play a crucial role in supporting individuals with ADHD and learning challenges. Training and resources can equip them to provide effective assistance and create a supportive environment.

 

Conclusion

ADHD and learning difficulties present significant challenges, but with early intervention and comprehensive support, individuals can develop strategies to cope and thrive. Recognizing the interplay between ADHD and learning issues is essential for providing effective support that addresses both conditions. By fostering an understanding and supportive environment, we can help those affected by ADHD and learning difficulties achieve their full potential and lead fulfilling lives.

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How to Evaluate if Your Child Needs Help at School

Ensuring a solid educational foundation is crucial for a child’s future success. Recognizing when your child might need extra support can make a significant difference in their academic journey. Understanding how to evaluate if your child needs help at school to lay their foundation is essential for parents and guardians. Early intervention can help mitigate the effects of learning difficulties and provide strategies to cope effectively. Here’s how to evaluate if your child needs help at school to lay their foundation.

 

1. Monitor Academic Performance

One of the primary indicators to evaluate if your child needs help at school to lay their foundation is their academic performance. Consistently low grades, difficulty understanding new concepts, and falling behind peers are red flags. Pay attention to feedback from teachers during parent-teacher conferences and progress reports. If your child struggles despite putting in effort, it may be time to seek additional support.

 

2. Observe Behavioural Changes

Behavioural changes can also signal the need to evaluate if your child needs help at school to lay their foundation. Children who are frustrated by academic challenges might exhibit signs of stress, anxiety, or a lack of interest in school. Noticeable changes in behaviour, such as increased irritability, withdrawal from social activities, or reluctance to attend school, can indicate underlying issues that need to be addressed.

 

3. Assess Learning Skills and Habits

Assessing your child’s learning skills and habits is another key step in determining how to evaluate if your child needs help at school to lay their foundation. Difficulties with basic skills such as reading, writing, and math are common indicators. Additionally, observe their study habits: Are they able to focus on homework? Do they manage their time effectively? Struggles in these areas often suggest the need for intervention.

 

4. Communication with Educators

Effective communication with educators is crucial when evaluating if your child needs help at school to lay their foundation. Teachers can provide valuable insights into your child’s performance and behaviour in the classroom. They can highlight specific areas of concern and suggest appropriate resources or strategies. Regular communication ensures that any issues are identified and addressed promptly.

 

5. Professional Assessments

If initial observations and teacher feedback indicate significant concerns, seeking a professional assessment is a vital step in how to evaluate if your child needs help at school to lay their foundation. Educational psychologists or specialists can conduct evaluations to identify any learning disabilities or developmental delays. These assessments provide a comprehensive understanding of your child’s needs and inform the development of an effective support plan.

 

6. Early Intervention and Support

Once you have determined that your child needs help, early intervention is crucial. Implementing support strategies at an early stage can significantly improve their academic experience and outcomes. Individualized Education Plans (IEPs), tutoring, and behavioural therapy are some options that can be tailored to address your child’s specific needs.

 

Conclusion

Understanding how to evaluate if your child needs help at school to lay their foundation is essential for setting them on the path to success. By closely monitoring academic performance, observing behavioural changes, assessing learning skills, communicating with educators, and seeking professional assessments, parents can identify when their child needs extra support. Early intervention not only helps manage learning difficulties but also empowers children to develop coping strategies, increasing their chances of long-term success in school and beyond.

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Kickstart the new year with our team of expert tutors!

As the new academic year approaches, it’s time to explore avenues that will give your child the strong start they need for the academic year. Our team of expert tutors are ready to provide your child with the guidance they need towards a path of academic excellence from the outset. Our team of expert tutors are equipped with the expertise to ensure that your child received the support they need to overcome hurdles they may come across along the way. Whether your child needs reinforcement in subjects that they struggle with or guidance in tackling more complex concepts, our tutors are dedicated to providing the necessary support tailored to your child’s specific needs. 

Transitioning to a new grade can often be overwhelming for students. The pressure of adapting to a different academic level and adjusting to increased workload can be daunting. At Catch Up Kids, we understand these challenges and offer the necessary guidance and support to help your child navigate these transitions. Our tutors provide a supportive environment where your child can confidently tackle the demands of a new academic year. Our tutors do not only provide homework support, but they are also trained to provide comprehensive assistance, whether it’s learning challenges or behavioural issues. At Catch Up Kids we believe in using a holistic approach, addressing not just academic needs but also fostering personal growth and development. At Catch Up Kids, we will provide your child with the necessary support that they need to cope with classroom pressures. 

Our one-on-one approach allows your child to learn at a comfortable pace whilst receiving the attention that they need to achieve great results. At Catch Up Kids, we view education as a collaborative effort involving parents, teachers, and the child themselves. We encourage active participation and open communication, ensuring that everyone involved is aware of the child’s progress. By fostering this partnership, we create a supportive network where your child’s growth becomes a shared goal, leading to a more enriching and effective learning experience. By focusing on the unique requirements of each child, we not only aim for academic success but also foster the essential skills necessary for a fulfilling and successful life beyond the classroom. 

To ensure your child kickstarts the new year on the right foot academically, enrolling them with Catch Up Kids is the way to go. This new year, empower your child to excel academically and overcome any challenges that come their way by enrolling them with Catch Up Kids. Let’s embark on this journey together, unlocking your child’s full potential. 

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Integrating Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) into Your Child’s ADHD Treatment Plan

There is presently no cure for Attention Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), however there are various treatments and interventions which can manage the symptoms effectively. One such approach is integrating Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA), into your child’s ADHD treatment plan. 

 

ABA is a therapeutic approach that focuses on understanding and improving behavioural issues. ABA is commonly associated with treating autism spectrum disorder, but its principles can also be beneficial for children with ADHD. 

 

Here are some of the benefits of integrating ABA into your child’s ADHD treatment plan: 

1. ABA techniques can help children with ADHD learn and reinforce positive behaviors, such as following instructions, maintaining focus, and controlling impulses. These are important skills to achieve academic success. By breaking tasks into manageable steps and providing rewards for completion, ABA can encourage desired behaviours. 

 

2. ABA emphasizes creating a structured environment. For children with ADHD, this structured setting can assist in organizing tasks, managing time, and reducing distractions, ultimately improving focus and attention. 

 

3. ABA promotes consistency in routine. Establishing consistent routines and clear expectations can be particularly helpful for children with ADHD, providing a sense of stability and reducing impulsivity. Having a constant change in routine may induce anxiety. 

 

4. ABA techniques can be used to teach specific skills, such as social interaction, executive functioning, self-regulation, and adaptive skills. These skills are essential for children with ADHD, especially in the school setting. Children with ADHD are often victims of bullying because of their lack of social skills, they often struggle to understand social cues and are easily irritable in social setting, and this makes it difficult for them to make friends 

 

The expert tutors at Catch Up Kids are trained at integrating Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA)  methodology into a ADHD Treatment Plan . This has equipped them with appropriate strategies to handle all kinds of behaviours. ABA can empower children with ADHD to navigate their world better. The programmes at Catch Up Kids are tailored to not only address learning difficulties, but to also address underlying issues that could be causing the learning difficulties. For more information, contact Catch Up Kids today! 

 

This article is not for medical purposes, consult your medical professional before making changes to your child’s treatment plan. 

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Common learning difficulties in children

Every child’s learning journey is unique. Many children encounter hurdles that can impede their progress and it is important to identify these challenges early to seek the necessary intervention. Implementing effective strategies can significantly aid children in overcoming these obstacle and assist them in achieving great results at school. Here are some common learning difficulties kids face and ways to address them: 

1. Dyslexia: Children with dyslexia struggle to read, write, and spell. They might struggle identifying words or remembering how to spell certain words. 

2. ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder): Children with ADHD struggle with focusing for long periods of time, impulse control, and hyperactivity, making it challenging to concentrate in the classroom. 

3. Dyscalculia: Dyscalculia affects mathematical abilities, leading to difficulties in understanding numbers, calculations, and mathematical concepts. 

4. Auditory Processing Disorder: APD affects how the brain processes auditory information, leading to challenges in understanding spoken language and following instructions. 

5. Visual Processing Disorder: Visual processing disorders hinder a child’s ability to interpret and make sense of visual information. 

6. Executive Functioning Issues: Executive functioning issues affect planning, organization, time management, and self-regulation skills in children. 

 

Effective Solutions: 

 

1. Individualized Education Plan (IEP): Creating personalized learning plans tailored to the child’s specific needs. These personalized plans are constantly modified to suit the child’s learning needs. 

2. Multisensory Learning: Use methods that engage multiple senses simultaneously, such as incorporating visuals, auditory aids, and hands-on activities to reinforce learning. 

3. Specialized Instruction: Seek specialized tutoring or interventions targeted at the particular difficulty the child is facing, such as reading specialists for dyslexia or math interventions for dyscalculia. 

4. Positive Reinforcement and Support: Encourage and celebrate small achievements, fostering a positive learning environment that boosts the child’s confidence and motivation. 

5. Structured Routines and Organization: Establish consistent routines and provide organisational strategies to help children manage tasks and stay focused. 

6. Collaboration and Communication: Maintain open communication between parents, teachers, and specialists to ensure a cohesive approach to addressing the child’s learning difficulties. 

 

Understanding and addressing these learning difficulties requires patience, empathy, and a collaborative effort between parents, educators, and professionals. By implementing tailored strategies and providing the necessary support, children can navigate these challenges and thrive academically and personally. 

 

Catch Up Kids designs programmes that specifically target your child’s skills deficits. Our aim is to assist your child with their learning difficulties and to ensure that the difficulties they are facing do not hinder their progress or lead to grade retention. Our specialised one-on-one sessions will assist your child in reaching their age-appropriate developmental milestones. 

 

Children with common learning difficulties struggle in the classroom and tend to always fall behind. To avoid grade retention, get your child the support that they need by contacting Catch Up Kids. 

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Remedial / Extra Classes

Remedial / Extra Classes – classes within a school setting- have aspects of traditional schooling, but focus on providing individual instructions, instead of giving instructions to the class as a whole. Teachers who teach remedial classes have specialised training that allows them to understand the individual needs of students with Autism, ADHD, other neurological conditions, and learning disorders. Due to their training, these teachers are often more patient, as they have learned about the behaviours which these children may display.

Remedial / Extra Classes also tend to be quite a bit smaller, but still focus on the social and communicative areas of peer-play and teamwork. These classes are more accommodating for the sensory needs of the children by often allowing frequent breaks for regulation and sensory input.

The four main steps of remedial teaching/classes are:

  • Prepping and collecting supporting materials that are specially for the abilities and capacity of the students.
  • Adapting the educational curriculum to the abilities of the children, especially through organising the resources in a way that is easier to understand for differently wired minds. This also includes making sure that the work is challenging (to prevent boredom, and thus non-compliance), but not so challenging that the child no longer wants to attempt the lesson.
  • Choosing appropriate teaching strategies, and teaching at a slower pace than in traditional classes. One of the strategies includes starting the lesson with an achievable goal, so that the child is motivated and willing to attempt a more demanding task.
  • Organising teaching materials, including materials that provide multi-sensory learning, interesting methods of learning, engaging colours, images, and themes.

In remedial classes, there is also a primary focus on rewarding trying, not just rewarding the desired outcome. This is the most important aspect of special needs education, as there is no incentive for the child to try if they do not know it is safe to make a mistake. Children with special needs often struggle can heavily impact their confidence and sense of self-worth, so it must be ensured that the environment is a calm, engaging, positive space for each individual.

Sometimes children can attend remedial / extra Classes independently, and other times, the child might require facilitation from a tutor, instructor, or therapist. School facilitation is the process in which the child is accompanied by a special-needs professional. The professional may be simply a supportive measure, or the needs of the child may be more intensive. Intensive support may look like running a toileting programme, showing the child how to complete activities and completing it with them, teaching communication methods, assisting social interaction, applying consistency in regard to complying with classroom rules and schedules, and explaining situations that the child might not understand or might be distressed by.

Remedial classes are an option for children with special needs, even if they are a higher-needs child. Should these needs require even more support than just a remedial class, school facilitations are an option to create the optimal environment of learning and trying!

Article by: A. Pascoe (2023)

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Learning Disabilities tutoring

There are various tutoring companies around the world that specifically teach tutors how to tutor for children with learning and/or neurodevelopmental disorders such as ADHD and autism. There are also companies through which tutors with special needs tutoring freelance and have experience doing so.

 

The core principles of learning disabilities are an important thing to understand and must be discussed to decide if this is a suitable route for the child. The first principle is understanding that children who need this extra assistance often have information processing deficits and are doing their best. Their brains simply process information differently. Often, if a child is non-verbal or has different educational needs, there is often the assumption that these children have less potential than they do. tutor trained in remedial work is often able to recognise thew child’s personal abilities and potential, and through doing so, challenge the child with realistic goals. This mode of tutoring is so important, as not only does it support the child’s needs, but it also assures that the child is not underestimated. In fact, it is essential that these children are not underestimated, as they made get bored with the task at hand, not complete the task properly, refuse to engage in the task, and feel discouraged because they do not feel as they are achieving anything. This leads to increased behavioural problems, and a deep-rooted frustration at not being understood or catered for.  It is also so important that the child is not given work that is above their current abilities, as they may also lead to that frustration, frequent feelings of failure, and a lack of motivation. Remedial tutoring is designed to make sure that these children do not encounter these disappointments, but also that if they do feel this way, they are properly communicated with and supported.

Any disability a child does possess does not mean that they have a low-level of intelligence. Tutoring cannot “cure” disabilities- it is simply a tool in the toolbox of managing these difficulties.

 

Some indicators that your child may need learning disabilities tutoring include, but are not limited to: struggling to write, difficulty speaking, having a challenging time translating their thoughts and requests into words, reading deficits, reading too early for learning milestones (this is also often paired with verbal communication deficits), struggling to form letters, or even not being able to write on the lines of the page. If your child has special needs, being non-verbal for example, these tutors will know how to form a connection of two-way communication, in whichever manner is needed for the child to have their needs met.

Learning disabilities tutoring can be a wonderful, helpful addition to remedial schooling, occupational & speech therapy, and medical treatment.

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Natural Remedies for ADHD in Children

For parents navigating the challenges of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in their children, the search for effective and gentle solutions is a heartfelt mission. While there’s no magic cure, there’s a growing interest among parents in natural remedies for ADHD in children to complement traditional approaches. Let’s explore a range of natural strategies tailored specifically for parents seeking holistic support for their children.

Understanding Natural Remedies for ADHD in Children:

Parents often wonder about alternatives to traditional ADHD management. Natural remedies for ADHD in children include lifestyle adjustments, dietary changes, and mindful practices. These approaches aim to create an environment that nurtures their child’s unique needs while providing essential support.

Dietary Importance:

Begin the journey by examining your child’s diet. Many parents report improvements in their child’s behaviour by eliminating certain additives, preservatives, dairy, gluten and artificial colours. Encourage a diet rich in nutrient-dense foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and sources of omega-3 fatty acids like fish and nuts. Small changes can have a big impact on overall well-being.

Playful Exercise:

Children are bundles of energy and channelling that energy through regular physical activity can be a game-changer. Whether it’s a favourite sport, dance, or a simple game of tag, incorporating playful exercise into their routine can help manage hyperactivity and improve focus. Make it a family activity to enhance the bonding experience.

Mindfulness Moments:

Introducing mindfulness practices to children can be both fun and beneficial. Simple exercises like deep breathing or engaging in mindfulness games can help enhance self-awareness and emotional regulation. These practices provide children with valuable tools to navigate the challenges of ADHD in a positive and empowering way.

Herbal Hints:

Some parents explore herbal supplements to support their child’s well-being. While the effectiveness of these supplements is still under research, herbs like chamomile and ginseng are thought to offer potential cognitive benefits. However, it’s crucial to consult with healthcare professionals before introducing any herbal supplements to ensure safety and appropriateness for children.

As parents, the journey of discovering what works best for your child with ADHD is a unique and ongoing process. Natural remedies can be gentle additions to your toolkit, providing holistic support to your child’s well-being. Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution, and the key is to embrace a combination of approaches that resonate with your child’s personality and needs.

Consulting with healthcare professionals, including paediatricians and educational specialists, is essential to crafting an individualised plan for your child. Natural remedies can be integrated seamlessly into daily life, creating a nurturing environment that fosters growth, resilience, and the development of valuable coping mechanisms. Together, with love and understanding, parents can empower their children to navigate the world with confidence, and help them reach their full potential.

Article by: A. Pascoe (2023)

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Schools for learning disabilities (Special Needs Schools)

There are so many different options that can be chosen to support a child with Special Education Needs (SEN)I n need of extra learning and everyday help. The South African government defines special needs schools as schools that “caters for students who have special educational needs due to severe learning disabilities, physical disabilities or behavioural problems. The South African constitution states that every single person has the right to accessible education, and special needs schools are an important way of ensuring this right.

 

Schools for learning disabilities are schools specifically designed for children on the neurodivergent spectrum or children with various learning disorders. Special needs schools are meant to help the child feel safer, more understood, understand information taught to them, and helps children build confidence in their skills and their education.

 

Unlike mainstream education systems, special needs schools focus on individual education so that the educational goals for each child considers their abilities and their learning styles.

Classes at these schools will be smaller, and the child will be given a safe environment in which they do not feel out of place. The smaller classes also prevent sensory overwhelm from a class full of 20 or more students, allows teachers time to explain and answer any questions in detail, and makes the child more likely to ask questions and communicate if they are not overwhelmed by the number of people listening to them. This is in addition to the benefit that the teacher who is working with your child is going to be specialised in understanding the child’s needs and the way their mind works. When in a space where they are validated, supported, understood, the child feels safe to try even if they make a mistake, which is a pillar of learning support.

 

A school for learning disabilities is also more likely to cater for the child’s sensory needs and boundaries.  This creates a classroom that lets the child use stim toys, provides frequent breaks, presents visual schedules, alongside having clear, visible class rules, and strict routines that are followed daily.  There is the worry that going to a smaller school may prevent the child from reaching the full extent of their social skills, but it is actually going to reduce the stigma the child experiences around their disability in a time where they are learning skills they need without the pressure of performing at a level that does not cater for their unique abilities. By socialising with children who may understand their experience of being neurodivergent, the child is likely to develop confidence in social interactions.

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